HCA Talks Health

Zena Le Roux

The Health Coaches Academy podcast series, HCA Talks Health, is a must-listen for anyone who is passionate about health and wellness. With a focus on in-depth health and wellness related subjects, the podcast series aims to bring together experts in the field of health and wellness coaching to share their insights and experiences. HCA Talks Health explores a wide range of health-related issues, including mental health disorders and diseases, sustainable weight loss, stress, sleep, self-empowerment, and popular topical subjects such as perimenopause and anxiety. By covering such a diverse range of topics, HCA ensures that there is something for everyone who is interested in health and wellness. One of the unique features of the podcast series is its focus on how to become a successful Health Coach. The series will provide insights into the daily lives of Health Coaches, including the areas that they work with clients such as mindset, behavioral change, and setting new habits. This focus on the profession of Health Coaching provides valuable insights for anyone who is considering a career as a Health Coach. The podcast series also features innovative experts and pioneers in the world of wellness who are making a real difference in the field of health and wellness coaching. By featuring these experts, listeners are kept up to date with the latest developments in the profession and they have access to the most cutting-edge information. Listen to the podcasts on the go, whether that is on the way to work, in the gym, or relaxing on a beach - wherever you choose! This accessibility ensures that you can stay up to date with the latest health and wellness information, no matter how busy your life may be. HCA Talks Health is an excellent resource for anyone who is passionate about health and wellness. Whether you are a qualified Health Coach, studying to become a Health Coach, thinking about becoming a Health Coach, or simply want to be healthier, the podcast series has something to offer. With its focus on up to the minute health and wellness related subjects, its insights into the profession of Health Coaching, its innovative experts, and its accessibility, it is unequivocally a must-listen for anyone who wants to stay up to date with the latest developments in the field of health and wellness coaching.

  1. 3D AGO

    A Health Coach’s Guide to Managing Client Screen Time & Mental Wellbeing | HCA Talks Health

    Kenneth Schlenker worked on product and data at Google, contributing to Google Maps, YouTube and Google Ads. He now runs Opal, an app that helps people manage screen time and stay focused. His earlier work was about keeping people engaged on their devices. At the time, that was the goal. But he’s since seen the downside. These systems are designed to keep people on their phones for longer, whether they enjoy it or not. On average, we spend around 5 hours a day on our phones. People are finding it harder to stay present in real-life interactions and to focus on one task. The patterns are starting to look a lot like addiction. He sees this as a wider issue, not just a matter of willpower. Opal is his response to that. It adds small barriers to make phone use more intentional and easier to control. In this episode, you will discover: Modern apps are engineered as "engagement factories" that monetise your time by selling it to advertisers.Digital addiction isn't a failure of willpower; it’s the result of systems designed specifically to defeat human self-discipline.Excessive screen time is a primary driver of the current global mental health and productivity crisis.Using tools to create "friction"—like breathwork or puzzles before opening an app—helps break compulsive cycles and reclaim focus.Long-term change comes from reframing your identity rather than relying on short-term diets or restrictions.This episode offers Health Coaches a powerful framework for helping clients navigate the "attention economy" by shifting the focus from guilt to structural change. By understanding that these digital systems are specifically engineered to override self-discipline, you can better support your clients in implementing "intentional friction" to protect their mental wellbeing and productivity. This shift from relying on willpower to redefining one's identity allows clients to move beyond passive consumption and rediscover the value of presence, rest, and focused living. 🌐 For more information on Opal, Kenneth’s screen time app, visit https://opalapp.com/  Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to HCA Talks Health  00:54 – From Google to Opal: Building systems for engagement vs. focus  02:14 – How the "Attention Economy" and autoplay keep users hooked  03:55 – Is it addiction? The impact of smartphones on sleep and attention  05:52 – The trillion-dollar business model behind capturing your attention  06:58 – Understanding "Sentiment of Regret" and compulsive phone use  08:22 – The data: Why we spend over 5 hours a day on our phones  09:22 – The Mental Health Crisis: Linking smartphones to depression and anxiety  10:52 – Digital Distraction Tools: Infinite scroll, stories, and notifications  11:58 – The future of engagement: How AI creates intimate digital relationships  14:47 – Why willpower fails and the need for "Intentional Friction"  15:47 – How the Opal app works: Breathwork, puzzles, and self-awareness  16:48 – The Impact: Saving 300 million hours of screen time  17:40 – Managing attention as a fundamental life skill for 2026  19:11 – Behavior Change: Why consistency beats intensity  19:42 – Changing Identity: How to reframe your relationship with technology  21:44 – Kenneth’s personal struggle with attention and his daily routine  24:55 – Step one for Health Coaches: Building awareness without guilt  25:21 – The #1 Takeaway: Stop blaming yourself—it's the system, not your willpower Connect with Health Coaches Academy: 📸 Follow HCA on Instagram: @healthcoachesacademy 🌿 Explore a rewarding career in Health & Wellness Coaching: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com 🔔 Subscribe & Review If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review!

    30 min
  2. APR 16

    Find Balance in a Busy World with Mediterranean Healthy Habits | Olivia Malonda | HCA Talks Health

    Ever feel like you’re rushing through life, trying to build healthy habits but never quite finding a rhythm that truly sticks? In this episode of HCA Talks Health, we’re joined by Mediterranean lifestyle expert and author Olivia Malonda to explore a way of living that goes far beyond food.  Rooted in tradition and supported by modern science, the Mediterranean lifestyle offers a practical, sustainable approach to developing healthy habits that support long-term wellbeing, stronger relationships, and a more balanced life, wherever you live. Tune in to discover: - Simple, practical ways to build healthy habits inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle, even with a busy schedule - A fresh perspective on health and longevity grounded in both cultural wisdom and research - Tools to bring more balance, connection, and joy into your everyday routine Whether you’re navigating conflicting health advice or simply craving a slower, more meaningful way of living, this episode offers a refreshing, human approach to wellbeing, helping you create healthy habits that last. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 01:00 What inspired Olivia’s passion for Mediterranean living 02:00 From recipes to a 28-day lifestyle challenge 03:00 Preventing chronic disease through lifestyle 04:00 Mediterranean values: community & connection 05:00 Hospitality, gratitude & simple pleasures 06:00 Savoring life vs efficiency 07:00 Making Mediterranean habits practical 08:00 Time management & prioritising health 09:00 Building habits into daily routines 10:00 Sharing meals & daily structure 11:00 Perspective, gratitude & natural movement 12:00 What happens when we lose these values 13:00 Screens, stress & modern lifestyle challenges 14:00 Building healthy habits from a young age 15:00 The problem with quick-fix health trends 16:00 Sustainable habits vs short-term results 17:00 Prevention vs cure mindset 18:00 The role of coaching in behaviour change 19:00 Simple Mediterranean recipe example 20:00 Nutrition, balance & meal structure 21:00 Where to find Olivia & her work 22:00 Final message: health, balance & simplicity 🔔 Subscribe & Review  If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our YouTube channel and leave a review!  Connect with Health Coaches Academy:  📸 Follow HCA on Instagram: @healthcoachesacademy 🌿 Explore a rewarding career in Health & Wellness Coaching: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com

    23 min
  3. APR 10

    Women’s Health, Wellbeing & Work-Life Balance with Coach Nicole Askwith Williams

    In this episode of HCA Talks Health, host Zena Le Roux sits down with Nicole Askwith Williams, an award-winning educator and the founder of the Women's Wellbeing Club. Nicole shares her personal transformation from an 11-year corporate career in finance to becoming a dedicated Women's Health Coach, a shift sparked by her own long-term struggle with undiagnosed hormonal symptoms. We explore how to better align our daily lives with female physiology and how Nicole empowers women to thrive by working in harmony with their natural biological rhythms.  In this episode, you’ll discover: - The importance of filtering online health trends to find evidence-backed advice - Why tailoring your nutrition and exercise to suit your specific life stage is so important - The simple, science-backed habits that can help regulate your hormones and boost daily energy - Why trusting your intuition is the most important first step in reclaiming your physical and mental wellbeing. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Nicole Askwith Williams and the Women's Wellbeing Club 01:00 – Nicole’s journey from teenage hormonal struggles to the corporate world 03:00 – Transitioning from the fitness industry to a deeper focus on hormonal health 05:00 – Defining holistic life coaching: moving beyond exercise and nutrition to work-life balance 07:00 – How Nicole educates organisations on supporting women in the workplace 08:00 – Implementing bespoke, small-habit changes for long-term health behavioural shifts 11:00 – The reality of misdiagnosis and the "insane" level of health misinformation online 13:00 – Debunking the "hormone balancing" movement and discussing lifestyle triggers 17:00 – The importance of evidence-based advice and proper coaching qualifications 21:00 – Overview of one-to-one coaching and group support programmes available 24:00 – Closing thoughts on trusting your intuition and taking the power to change your life Ultimately, Nicole reminds us that if something doesn't feel right within your body or your mind, you possess the absolute power to change it. By moving away from "one-size-fits-all" trends and towards evidence-based, individualised care, women can move from feeling unsupported to feeling empowered. Whether you are a Health Coach looking to better support your clients or an individual ready to take action on your health, this episode serves as a vital reminder to trust your intuition and take that first step towards a more vibrant version of yourself. To learn more about Nicole’s education initiatives, visit the Women’s Wellbeing Club: www.thewomenswellbeingclub.com  Connect with Health Coaches Academy:  📸 Follow HCA on Instagram: @healthcoachesacademy 🌿 Explore a rewarding career in Health & Wellness Coaching: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com

    27 min
  4. MAR 26

    Weight Loss, Health Resilience & Goal Achievement with Fred Ford | HCA Talks Health

    In this episode of HCA Talks Health, Zena Le Roux sits down with Fred Ford, a motivational speaker and author of the international bestseller Think and Grow Thin. After struggling with his weight for three decades and reaching a peak of 350.2 pounds, Fred underwent a life-altering transformation at age 61. He shares how health coaches can help their clients move beyond the "weight loss rollercoaster" by facilitating a fundamental shift in identity rather than just focusing on restrictive behaviours. By applying proven success principles to health (ultimately losing 130 pounds without the use of drugs or surgery) Fred provides a ground-breaking roadmap for coaches to help their clients achieve lasting resilience and transformation from the inside out. In this episode, you will discover: The predictable pattern of temporary weight loss and gainWhy identifying as a "one percenter" from day one is the key to permanent successThe power of visualisation, using mental imagery to "think and grow thin" Looking at daily habits for health resilience and goal achievementNavigating the daily temptation to quit and the importance of recommitting to your goals every single morningFred's three-step strategy for goal achievement Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction to Fred Ford 0:59 – Fred's 30-year weight loss journey and identity struggle 2:40 – The turning point: The Disney World incident and a prayer for change 6:10 – The "Think and Grow Thin" method: Using index cards and Bob Proctor’s theories 8:44 – How coaching groups led to an international bestselling book 11:06 – Why 99% of diets fail and the importance of identity change 16:18 – The power of visualization: Thinking in pictures to create reality 20:01 – Daily habits, consistency, and the "silver bullet" 24:03 – Overcoming ongoing challenges and "mastery" 27:34 – Why it is never too late to start, regardless of age 30:51 – How life has changed: Energy, spirituality, and the "Avatar moment" 38:35 – How Fred supports others through workshops and coaching 41:41 – The key takeaway: The three steps to success To find out more about Fred’s book Think and Grow Thin, visit www.authorfredford.com.  Fred’s story is a powerful testament to the idea that "imagined reality is reality". By replacing self-loathing with a commitment to daily consistency, he proved that even at 61, it is possible to "emancipate" yourself from a lifetime of struggle. His journey from being unable to fit on a rollercoaster ride to walking miles in the snow serves as a roadmap for anyone looking to transform their life from the inside out. Connect with Health Coaches Academy: 📸 Follow HCA on Instagram: @healthcoachesacademy 🌿 Explore a rewarding career in Health & Wellness Coaching: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com 🔔 Subscribe & Review If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our channel and leave a review!

    47 min
  5. MAR 19

    Navigating Neurodiversity | Kelly Bristow on Stories, Strategies & Self-Advocacy | HCA Talks Health

    What if understanding neurodiversity could transform your approach to leadership, teamwork, and everyday relationships? In this episode of HCA Talks Health, we’re joined by Kelly Bristow, a Chartered Coaching and Business Psychologist, who blends professional expertise with personal experience to shed light on the realities of living and working with neurodiversity. 🎧 Tune in to discover: What neurodiversity really means in personal and professional life Practical strategies to support neurodiverse colleagues and clients How to create inclusive environments that embrace unique strengths Stories of resilience and self-advocacy from neurodiverse individuals The role of Health Coaches in supporting wellbeing and self-confidence Whether you’re a leader, coach, or someone exploring your own neurodiverse identity, this episode offers practical insights and compassionate strategies for building supportive, inclusive environments. 🔗 Discover more: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 – Introduction & Kelly’s background 1:00 – From teaching psychology to ADHD diagnosis 2:30 – Self-discovery and late diagnosis journey 4:00 – Defining neurodiversity & neurodivergence 6:00 – ADHD beyond stereotypes: focus, hyperactivity & strengths 8:00 – Dopamine, creativity, and energy as advantages 10:00 – Challenges: executive dysfunction & everyday struggles 12:00 – Workplace inclusion & flexible working 14:00 – Job crafting: playing to strengths 16:00 – Breaking stigma & psychological safety at work 18:00 – Why coaches need awareness of neurodiversity 20:00 – Coaching challenges: habits, routines & barriers 22:00 – Creating safe spaces & adapting coaching methods 24:00 – Practical adjustments: breaks, fidgets & session design 26:00 – Coaching approaches: strategy, identity & advocacy 28:00 – Client outcomes: promotions, life changes & confidence 30:00 – Finding Kelly online & her current work 31:00 – Final thoughts: respect lived experiences & language 🌟 More from The Health Coaches Academy Follow HCA on Instagram: @healthcoachesacademy If you have a passion for health and wellbeing and would like to discover a new, rewarding career in Health & Wellness Coaching, we invite you to visit our website: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com 🎙 Subscribe and Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe to our YouTube Channel and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more Health Coaches who need these insights. 🎙 Thanks for tuning in to HCA Talks Health — see you in two weeks!

    35 min
  6. MAR 12

    Managing Anxiety Through Nutrition with Dr. Jaz Robbins | A Health Coaches Guide | HCA Talks Health

    In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Jaz Robbins, a clinical professor of psychology, licensed psychologist, and board-certified holistic nutritionist, to explore the powerful intersection of nutritional psychology and mental health. Dr. Jaz shares her unique journey of combining her background in food science with her clinical psychology practice to address the "food-mood connection." She explains how our nervous system functions like a traffic light and how chronic anxiety can keep us stuck in a "yellow light" state of fight-or-flight, draining our body's resources. Dr. Jaz breaks down the science of the enteric nervous system, a.k.a. our "second brain" in the gut, and provides practical, low-pressure strategies for health coaches and individuals to recalibrate their wellbeing through intentional, baby-step dietary changes. In this episode, you will discover: In this episode, you will discover: - How to identify if your nervous system is stuck in a state of chronic stress - The biological link between your gut microbiome and emotional regulation - Why stimulants can mimic or worsen symptoms of anxiety - How to correctly pair proteins and carbohydrates to boost serotonin production - Practical coaching techniques to help clients build confidence through small, achievable wins  Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Dr Jaz’s background & clinical experience 02:30 Anxiety, stress & modern lifestyle 04:00 The gut-brain connection 05:30 Nutritional deficiencies & mental health 07:00 Blood sugar balance & anxiety 08:30 Caffeine, alcohol & anxiety triggers 10:00 The role of the nervous system 11:30 Practical nutrition strategies for anxiety 13:00 Supporting clients with small changes 14:30 Supplements & when to consider them 16:00 Sleep, lifestyle & recovery 17:30 Hormones & anxiety 19:00 Working with clients holistically 20:30 Common mistakes in managing anxiety 22:00 Creating sustainable habits 23:30 Advice for Health Coaches 25:00 Final thoughts & key takeaways 26:00 Closing This episode is an insightful listen for Health Coaches, wellness professionals, and anyone who may experience anxiety. It is also perfect for those looking to understand the biological roots of mental wellbeing and seeking compassionate, manageable ways to support their nervous system through the power of nutrition.  To connect with Dr. Jaz Robbins, visit her website 🌐www.drjazrobbins.com or follow her on Instagram: @drjazrobbins Connect with Health Coaches Academy: 📸 Follow HCA on Instagram: @healthcoachesacademy 🌿 Explore a rewarding career in Health & Wellness Coaching: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com 🔔 Subscribe & Review If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our channel and leave a review!

    1 hr
  7. MAR 4

    Positive Sleep & Better Health | Giles Watkins on Rest & Leadership | HCA Talks Health

    Can improving your sleep truly transform your health and performance? In this episode of HCA Talks Health, host Zena le Roux sits down with Giles Watkins, seasoned coach, mentor, and author of Positive Sleep – A Holistic Approach to Resolve Sleep Issues and Transform Your Life. With over 30 years of global business experience, Giles shares his journey from sleep struggles to holistic solutions — and why better sleep can be life-changing. 🎧 Tune in to discover: Why “positive sleep” matters more than focusing on the negatives The hidden cognitive impacts of poor sleep (and how they mirror being intoxicated) The link between sleep, leadership, and emotional intelligence Practical tips like body scanning, regular sleep rhythms & magnesium Why small shifts in sleep habits can transform both health and business ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction & Giles’ background 01:00 – Why Positive Sleep? Reframing the conversation 03:00 – What happens when we don’t sleep enough 05:00 – How poor sleep affects memory, emotions & leadership 07:00 – The four areas leaders struggle with when sleep-deprived 10:00 – Napping research: short vs. full sleep cycles 12:00 – Personal sleep struggles & corporate burnout 14:00 – Why leaders need perspective & empathy for teams 17:00 – How sleep affects emotional regulation & engagement 19:00 – Corporate culture, stress & listening to employees 21:00 – Sleep deprivation vs. drink driving risks 23:00 – Holistic sleep strategies: body scanning, rhythm & magnesium 28:00 – The role of calm, mindfulness & winding down 31:00 – Technology, anxiety & sleep trackers 33:00 – Suppressed emotions, conditioning & sleep disruption 36:00 – Human “doings” vs. human “beings”: importance of rest 37:00 – How Giles supports individuals with sleep issues 39:00 – Coaching, layering small changes & success rate 40:00 – Final thoughts: a good night’s sleep changes everything Whether you’re a Health Coach, wellness practitioner, or simply looking to sleep better, this episode will inspire you with practical, science-based insights. 🔗 Discover more: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com/health-wellness-podcast 🌟 More from The Health Coaches Academy Follow HCA on Instagram: @healthcoachesacademy Passionate about wellbeing? Start a rewarding career in Health & Wellness Coaching → https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com 🎙 Subscribe and Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe to our YouTube Channel and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more Health Coaches who need these insights.

    41 min
  8. MAR 2

    What Health Coaches Need to Know about Breathing Efficiency with Dr Louise Oliver | HCA Talks Health

    In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Louise Oliver, an NHS GP, Functional Breathing Practitioner and therapeutic Life Coach, to talk about the profound impact of breathing efficiency on our physical and mental wellbeing. Louise shares her personal journey of how correcting her own breathing patterns resolved her snoring, transformed her sleep and increased her capacity to handle stress. She explains that many of us have lost the ability to breathe "as nature intended" due to modern lifestyles, leading to a host of hidden health issues.  Tune in to discover: The nose as a filter and how it connects directly to our brain's emotional centres24/7 breathing efficiency as part of our unconscious breathing patterns vs. breathworkThe “light, low, slow” framework to induce a relaxation response and move out of a chronic stress stateHow diaphragmatic breathing assists in removing toxins during sleepHow to correctly position the tongue and improve your airway healthLouise’s approach reminds us that breathing is a free, accessible tool that can improve everything from brain fog and exercise recovery to hormonal balance and chronic pain. 🌐 Visit Dr Louise Oliver’s Website: www.drlouiseolivertherapeuticlifecoaching.com 💤 Louise only recommends MyoTape, as it is a safe, non-restrictive solution (available globally, including on Takealot).  Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to HCA Talks Health 00:54 – Louise’s story: How breathing changed her life and stopped her snoring 02:08 – What it means to breathe "as nature intended" 03:10 – The dangers of mouth breathing and the benefits of the nose 05:31 – Why 50% of people may be breathing inefficiently 06:21 – How hormones (menopause, pregnancy) impact your breath 08:00 – The impact of "sucking in your stomach" on the diaphragm 11:58 – The difference between breathing efficiency and traditional breathwork 17:09 – The 3 dimensions: Breathe Light, Breathe Low and Breathe Slow 18:13 – Demonstration: How posture and mouth breathing trigger stress 22:38 – Over-breathing and how to recalibrate your body 25:05 – Breathing at night: The glymphatic system and brain detox 27:40 – Mouth taping: Benefits and safety considerations (MyoTape) 32:38 – Advice for Health Coaches: How to observe client breathing 35:58 – Surprising health links: From brain fog to improved smell and thyroid health 40:02 – The #1 Tip: The correct tongue position for an open airway  🌱 More from the Health Coaches Academy  Follow HCA on Instagram: @healthcoachesacademy Discover a rewarding career in Health & Wellness Coaching: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com 🎙️Subscribe and Review If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe to our channel and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more Health Coaches who need these insights. Thanks for tuning in to HCA Talks Health - see you in two weeks!

    44 min

About

The Health Coaches Academy podcast series, HCA Talks Health, is a must-listen for anyone who is passionate about health and wellness. With a focus on in-depth health and wellness related subjects, the podcast series aims to bring together experts in the field of health and wellness coaching to share their insights and experiences. HCA Talks Health explores a wide range of health-related issues, including mental health disorders and diseases, sustainable weight loss, stress, sleep, self-empowerment, and popular topical subjects such as perimenopause and anxiety. By covering such a diverse range of topics, HCA ensures that there is something for everyone who is interested in health and wellness. One of the unique features of the podcast series is its focus on how to become a successful Health Coach. The series will provide insights into the daily lives of Health Coaches, including the areas that they work with clients such as mindset, behavioral change, and setting new habits. This focus on the profession of Health Coaching provides valuable insights for anyone who is considering a career as a Health Coach. The podcast series also features innovative experts and pioneers in the world of wellness who are making a real difference in the field of health and wellness coaching. By featuring these experts, listeners are kept up to date with the latest developments in the profession and they have access to the most cutting-edge information. Listen to the podcasts on the go, whether that is on the way to work, in the gym, or relaxing on a beach - wherever you choose! This accessibility ensures that you can stay up to date with the latest health and wellness information, no matter how busy your life may be. HCA Talks Health is an excellent resource for anyone who is passionate about health and wellness. Whether you are a qualified Health Coach, studying to become a Health Coach, thinking about becoming a Health Coach, or simply want to be healthier, the podcast series has something to offer. With its focus on up to the minute health and wellness related subjects, its insights into the profession of Health Coaching, its innovative experts, and its accessibility, it is unequivocally a must-listen for anyone who wants to stay up to date with the latest developments in the field of health and wellness coaching.

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